Checks Without Balances

A select group of public officials across North Carolina receive large salaries and big benefits to run authorities, commissions or institutions that are overseen by political appointees and draw little public scrutiny.

With a salary cap lifted, trustees at four schools shifted housing allowances, annuities and car allowances to salaries. Some leaders acknowledged the moves were intended to increase the presidents’ retirement pay.

Trapped by glacial state wages and sparse promotions, Renee Wilkins handles paperwork at Wake County's courthouse by day. At night, she waits tables and tends bar. In between, she cares for her two boys.

Some of North Carolina's highest-paid government retirees are benefiting from a special fund set up by state lawmakers in 2013 so the retirees can receive pensions that otherwise would be too high under federal law. One of the biggest beneficiaries: former UNC Athletics Director Dick Baddour, who has the largest pension in NC's system.